New York bodega cats face legal pest control issues

Bodega cats, like Mia, Silver, and Gracie, help control pests in New York's food businesses. They are popular among deli and bodega owners for their effectiveness in keeping mice away. However, state law prohibits animals, except service animals, in food establishments. This creates a conflict for bodega owners who rely on cats for pest control. The presence of these cats raises concerns about health regulations, as inspectors could issue violations for having them on the premises.